Adaptive Mounting Plate for Aircraft Payloads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft mounting methodologies for C4ISR electronics and sensors require airframe modifications and compromise backend cargo air drop operations, lacking flexibility and interfering with 360-degree field of view and in-flight reconfiguration needs.
Innovation Solution
A modular, portable Adaptive Mounting Plate (AMP) system with load transfer braces and an electrically-actuated strut that interfaces with the aircraft's Air Deployment System (ADS) rails, allowing for rapid installation, 360-degree field of view, and in-flight extension/retraction without airframe modifications, using adjustable cam locks and bolts for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing aircraft mounting methodologies are used for C4ISR electronics and sensors, then the systems can be mounted on aircraft, but airframe modifications are required and backend cargo air drop operations are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: a pod containing the C4ISR equipment, a pylon for attachment, and a interface mechanism that connects to existing aircraft structures without modifications. This segmentation allows the mounting system to be adapted to different aircraft types without altering the airframe.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is designed with universal interfaces that can accommodate multiple aircraft types and configurations. The pylon and pod assembly can be mounted on various aircraft without requiring airframe modifications, enabling the same system to serve multiple operational roles including surveillance, reconnaissance, and cargo transport.
2Strength
If a torque pallet is used to absorb flight induced loads, then the mounting system can support payload, but all other backend air drop operations are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The load-bearing function is extracted from a fixed torque pallet structure and integrated into a removable pylon assembly. This allows the load support capability to be present when needed for payload operations and removed or stowed when cargo air drop operations are required, eliminating the compromise between these two functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from a static torque pallet that permanently occupies mounting points to a dynamic pylon assembly that can be installed and removed as needed. This dynamic configuration allows the aircraft to switch between payload carriage mode and cargo air drop mode without structural compromises.
3Ease of manufacture
If airframe modifications are made to accommodate wing or belly mounting pylons, then dedicated mounting capability is achieved, but flexibility and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
An intermediary pylon assembly serves as the connection between the aircraft and the payload pod. This intermediary component interfaces with existing, unmodified aircraft structures through standardized attachment points, eliminating the need for custom airframe modifications while providing dedicated mounting capability for special mission payloads.
4Ease of operation
If a fixed mounting system is used, then installation is simple, but 360-degree field of view and in-flight reconfiguration are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The pod and pylon assembly incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow the system to transition from a simple fixed installation to a reconfigurable configuration. The pylon can be positioned at different locations on the aircraft, and the pod orientation can be adjusted in flight to achieve optimal 360-degree field of view for sensing and surveillance operations.
Data Source
AI summary
Particular embodiments include a mission payload mounting apparatus. The mission payload apparatus includes a pressurized door plug assembly on a side of an aircraft fuselage and a strut having a first end and a second end. The strut extends from an interior of the aircraft fuselage through the pressurized door plug assembly to an exterior of the aircraft fuselage. The first end of the strut is connected to the interior of the aircraft fuselage. One or more payloads are attached to the strut.